Strictly Come Dancing Reportedly Axes Fourth Professional Dancer for 2026 Series
Strictly Come Dancing is facing significant changes ahead of its 2026 series, with reports indicating that a fourth professional dancer has been cut from the lineup. This follows earlier news that three other pros will not return, marking a substantial shake-up for the beloved BBC entertainment show.
Nadiya Bychkova Allegedly Receives Shocking News
According to sources, Ukrainian dancer Nadiya Bychkova, aged 36, was informed during a meeting with BBC executives on Friday, 6 March 2026, that she would not be invited back as a full-time professional. An insider described her as "distraught" by the decision, noting that her life had revolved around the show since she joined in 2017.
The insider elaborated, stating, "The news came as such a huge shock as Nadiya's life was Strictly and to find out she's not been invited back has really broken her heart. No one was expecting producers to chop so many professionals, especially someone like Nadiya, who's shown so much dedication over the years."
This development has reportedly created a tense atmosphere among the remaining professional dancers, with many feeling uncertain about their own positions on the show.
Background on the Departing Dancers
Bychkova, who stands at 5ft 8, has typically been paired with taller male contestants throughout her time on Strictly Come Dancing. Her partners have included Davood Khadami and Dan Walker, though she never reached the final. In the 2025 series, she competed with Chris Robshaw, and they were the third couple to be eliminated.
The other professional dancers reportedly axed are:
- Gorka Márquez: A Spanish dancer who joined in 2016, reached the final twice with Alexandra Burke and Helen Skelton, and met his fiancée, Gemma Atkinson, on the show.
- Luba Mushtuk: A Russian professional who became part of the cast in 2018 and has competed in four series.
- Michelle Tsiakkas: A Cypriot dancer who joined in 2022 and has participated in just one series.
None of these three dancers had celebrity partners in the 2025 series, but they are all scheduled to appear in the upcoming Strictly: The Professionals tour, which begins in late April.
Broader Context of Changes on Strictly Come Dancing
This wave of departures comes on the heels of other major shifts for the show. The previous series saw longtime presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman step down from their roles, sparking ongoing speculation about their replacements. The reported axing of four professional dancers suggests a comprehensive overhaul as the BBC prepares for the 2026 season.
A BBC representative has stated that plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course, while The Independent has reached out to Bychkova's representatives for comment.
Bychkova's Public Response
Despite the disappointing news, Bychkova maintained a positive public demeanor over the weekend. She posted a video on social media showing herself dancing by a swimming pool to celebrate International Women's Day. In her caption, she wrote, "Celebrating women today and every day. The strength, the joy, the resilience and the beautiful way we lift each other up. And sometimes... a little dance along the way. Happy International Women's Day."
This display of resilience highlights her dedication to the art of dance, even as her future with Strictly Come Dancing remains uncertain.
